Over 450,000 people participate in 2,299 heritage events around the country, 500 more events than last year. 87% of the events were free so that heritage could be accessed and appreciated by all.

Heritage Week highlighted the work of those who work tirelessly to help us us share and enjoy our wonderful heritage. 2,299 event organisers planned events this year (a 19% increase on 2016), ranging from national cultural institutions to local community groups, and individuals.

“Heritage Week is really about people sharing and enjoying what is important to them, what they value most about where they live and work and visit. We all feed off the energy and the evidence shows that with the very modest encouragement we are currently able to provide people and communities just do the rest. Increased awareness and understanding of the value of our heritage, natural and cultural, can only be good for us all in the long run.”

Heritage Week 2017 focused on Ireland’s natural heritage through tours, walks, workshops, talks, exhibitions, outdoor activities and more. People took the opportunity to learn how we can protect our endangered species and habitats and see how the work and commitment of local communities and many individuals is helping to conserve nature, for us and for future generations.

During the week the inaugural Wild Child Day on Wednesday 23rd August 2017 saw communities come together to plan natural heritage events where children explored the outdoors and experienced our natural heritage first hand. Children across Ireland were encouraged to switch off their electronics, get off the couch and get muddy at archaeological digs, forest trails, bug workshops or simply enjoy a leisurely family walk.

Following on from the success of Heritage Week, the Heritage Council is asking the public to nominate their Heritage Hero as part of the Heritage Awards 2017. Heritage Week event organisers can also put their events forward for awards in categories including Hidden Heritage, Heritage Communities and Cool for Kids. Entries close on Friday 15 September.